Having taken part in the event, where thousands of women – and a few brave men – walk round the streets of Edinburgh wearing a brightly coloured bra to raise awareness and cash for cancer charities, Sarah (29) knows what it takes to fulfil the challenge.

Now the bank branch manager of Canalside Drive, Reddingmuirhead, is urging other people to join her as a volunteer.

Sarah took part in her first MoonWalk in 2011.

She said: “I walked with my friend Lorraine, whose mum had been diagnosed with breast cancer the previous year.

“I loved doing the MoonWalk – I felt such a sense of achievement when I crossed the finishing line, and it was a great way to kick-start my weight loss.

“Since taking part in the event, I have gone on to lose 8.5 stones!”

The following year a ripped calf muscle stopped her taking part but in 2013 she signed up as a volunteer.

Hundreds of people are needed every year to ensure the event runs smoothly and they can help in lots of different roles. These include: route marshal, car marshal, cycle marshal, clean and recycle team, volunteer registration, and part of the welcome and directional team.

Shifts are from 6pm to midnight on the Saturday, overnight Saturday into Sunday and from 6am until midday on the Sunday – and if you are really keen you can sign up for more than one shift.

Sarah added: “Being awake through the night isn’t as hard as you might think. I’ve heard some amazing personal stories over the years, and have built great relationships with some of the walkers. There is a man who walks every year in memory of his wife, and we have a lovely chat every time. There is a real sense of community spirit at the event.”

Volunteers can join Sarah and sign up until the day before the event at www.walkthewalk.org.